Apple SIM is a pick-and-mix pre-installed SIM for the new iPad

Lurking in the wireless details for the newly-announced iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3 is reference to the Apple SIM, not mentioned at the announcement of Apple's new tablets.

The description reads as follows:

"The Apple SIM gives you the flexibility to choose from a variety of short-term plans from select carriers in the US and UK right on your iPad. So whenever you need it, you can choose the plan that works best for you - with no long-term commitments."

"And when you travel, you may also be able to choose a data plan from a local carrier for the duration of your trip."

The Apple SIM comes pre-installed on the iPad Air 2 and the iPad mini 3, announced today by Tim Cook et al at Apple's special event. It's not clear whether it will be an option for older iPad models.

Plenty was made of the connectivity of the iPads, with Phil Schiller, SVP worldwide marketing at Apple, pointing out that there was a huge range of LTE bands supported by the new iPad Air 2.

It now seems that you won't have to open it up and swap the SIM either, as you can just select from participating networks.

Apple has confirmed that AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile are on-board in the US, and EE is participating in the UK. Potentially, it means that when you travel with your iPad, you can quickly choose a local plan and avoid any expensive roaming costs.